Nucomm HD Microwave Gear Going Airborne At Beijing Olympics

High above the athletes, Nucomm will supply HD microwave equipment to China's national broadcaster, CCTV, for airborne use during outdoor events at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

It's the first airborne HD microwave system sold to a broadcast network in the People's Republic.

During the games, Nucomm will equip a helicopter with its CamPac 2 microwave transmitter, a small, lightweight HD/SD COFDM unit intended for wireless/moving camera applications); and its Newscaster DR, a lightweight HD/SD COFDM microwave receiver for portable and mobile video applications. Also included in the package is a high-performance two-axis steered antenna from Troll Systems.

"Overhead shots are an important aspect of sports broadcasts and we wanted a solution that would provide our network with exceptional performance and the greatest possible flexibility", said Ding Wen-Hua, chief engineer for CCTV. "Nucomm's technology will play a critical role in bringing viewers across the country closer to the event".

As well as providing overhead shots, the helicopter will serve as an airborne repeater for CCTV during the games. On the ground, two motorcycles will send pictures up to the helicopter where they will be relayed back to a complementary Nucomm portable receiver terminal.

"Nucomm continues to expand its reach in the Asian market, and a successful partnership with CCTV will further our efforts substantially", said Dr. John Payne, CEO of Nucomm. "As the world turns its attention to Beijing next year, Nucomm is excited to help create coverage of the highest quality. With an exceptional design team consisting of highly qualified engineers, Nucomm is positioned to assist broadcasters around the globe in their efforts to shift to HD".